Rooting
Our glossary explains basic terms and abbreviations relating to mobile working, the use of smartphones and tablets in the corporate environment (Enterprise Mobility) and security aspects in the use of mobile devices.
Rooting
Removing usage restrictions on Android devices
Rooting is the process of removing usage restrictions from tablets and smartphones running Android. To do this, the mobile device usually has to be connected to a computer with the corresponding software. Usually, certain areas of a mobile operating system are blocked from user access. This is part of the security architecture.
Rooting can remove these locks and give the user access to stored system data such as Wi-Fi passwords. In addition, unwanted bloatware that is often present on Android can be removed.
Rooted Android devices as a security risk
Geroote end devices can be a potential source of danger for corporate networks due to the extended access to the file system and sensitive data. This is especially true in BYOD scenarios. Users also usually lose their warranty rights as a result of the rooting process. The mobile device can also suffer from system instability or even become completely inoperable (brick). Rooting an iOS device is called a jailbreak.